Mecanoo selected to design library interior in Tilburg

Project updates12.05.2017

Mecanoo architecten will design the interior furnishing for the LocHal in Tilburg, the Netherlands. Located in a former train manufacturing hall, the LocHal is set become a hub of knowledge, culture and entrepreneurship, housing the public library, cultural institutions and co-working spaces.

"We are pleased that Mecanoo is going to design the LocHal library,” said Peter Kok, director of the Bibliotheek Midden-Brabant. “Together with all parties involved in the transformation of the LocHal, we will create a meaningful place for Tilburg. A place where everyone can develop their talents; a place that stimulates curiosity; where one can test new ideas, meet other people, and exchange stories. Mecanoo is the logical choice for this innovative new approach to libraries.”

Francine Houben, creative director of Mecanoo, added: “We look forward to designing a library that truly belongs to Tilburg and its citizens, but at the same time also appeals to visitors. The LocHal has enormous potential to become an unforgettable space in the city.”

Marcelle Hendrickx, alderwoman of education and culture for Tilburg, proudly stated: “The railway zone in Tilburg has national and international appeal. This will also be the case for the future library at the LocHal. I am convinced that Mecanoo will help shape our ambitions in a beautiful way.”

Mecanoo designed Europe’s largest public library in Birmingham and is currently renovating the New York Public Library and the Central Library of Washington, DC. The LocHal is being transformed by a team of CIVIC architects, Braaksma & Roos, Arup and Inside Outside/Petra Blaisse.